High Sulphur Bunker

High sulphur bunker, commonly referred to as high sulphur fuel oil (HSFO), is a type of heavy fuel oil used primarily as fuel for marine vessels. This fuel is called ‘bunker’ because it is stored in the ship’s bunkers. High sulphur content implies that the fuel contains a high percentage of sulphur, typically above 0.5% by weight. The high sulphur content in the fuel contributes to higher emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx), which are pollutants known to contribute to acid rain and have negative impacts on human health and the environment.

Due to these negative environmental impacts, strict regulations have been implemented by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to reduce sulphur emissions from ships. The IMO 2020 regulation, effective from January 1, 2020, requires that marine fuels used on board ships must not exceed 0.5% sulphur content, unless the ship is equipped with an exhaust gas cleaning system, known as a scrubber, that can reduce air pollution. Prior to the implementation of these regulations, ships commonly used high sulphur bunker fuel due to its lower cost compared to low sulphur alternatives.

For a more in-depth understanding of high sulphur bunker and related regulations, you can refer to the following sources:

1. International Maritime Organization (IMO) – The IMO provides comprehensive information on the regulations governing emissions from ships including sulphur limits. This is the primary regulatory body overseeing maritime pollution issues.

Website: https://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/HotTopics/Pages/Sulphur-2020.aspx rel="nofollow">https://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/HotTopics/Pages/Sulphur-2020.aspx

2. Bunkerworld – Bunkerworld is a dedicated service providing news, information and prices for the marine fuels industry. They offer market insights, price indicators and regulatory updates relevant to both high and low sulphur bunker fuels.

Website: https://www.bunkerworld.com/

Please note that websites and URLs are subject to change or become inactive overtime. It is advisable to search for the most current and reliable sources if the above links are no longer active.